Talisker distillery was founded in 1830 by Hugh and Kenneth MacAskil at Carbost on the the Isle of Skye. In all these years Talisker's distillation method has remained unchanged. In fact, when the entire distillery burnt to the ground in 1960 they rebuilt everything back to the original specs. Talisker is owed by Diageo but is operated by United Distillers and Vintners and those guys do a good job keeping the mealy corporate hands off of the malt. Today, Talisker is the only distillery on the Isle of Skye—the coolest island name on the planet—creating a full range of island-style, medium-peated, single malt agings and finished-wood Whiskies.

If you could only have one bottle of Talisker, this is it. Don’t get us wrong — Talisker is one of the great distilleries in Scotland and all of their work is top-shelf. But Talisker 18 Year Old enjoys universal acclaim from the entire Whisky-loving world. In fact, when this version was added to their core lineup in 2007, it was hailed as “Best Single Malt Whisky in the World.” It has the perfect balance of flavors mellowed by time — fruit and smoke, savory and sweet, smoothness and spice.

I was initially unimpressed by this bottle. Considering the price and reputation, that was a disappointment. However, after trying it again (and again, and again...) I am struck by the subtlety and smoothness.

Fantastic scotch - the classic salty Talisker flavor, but smoother and with a bit more complex notes to it (especially notice the caramel)

Dennis,
Feb 8, 2018

A shining example of how extra maturation turns a great scotch into an exceptional dram. The spiciness and peaty smoke that makes the 10-year so distinctive is now subdued and refined, allowing sweet citrus and caramel notes to blossom on the palate, but still retains that peat finish that slowly lingers off the tongue. This is not a scotch for those that would like a less harsh Talisker. This is a reward for those who enjoy Talisker at its core.

Lauren,
Jun 30, 2017

Delicious. Still has that unique Talisker flavor, but smooth AF.

Brian,
Jun 15, 2017

Full of flavor

Stephen,
Jun 12, 2017

Think - Talisker 10 - but less harsh. This is a fantastic scotch for those who do not like overwhelming peat and smoke. The nose has caramel and vanilla notes with a spicy-fruity incense. The taste is sweet and spicy up front, and then hints of peat and salt come through. The mouthfeel definitely lasts in this one! And the smoke is just barely there. If you have the budget, Talisker 18 is definitely worth the price.